The commitment and determination of police members and community mobilisation ensured the apprehension of a 28-year-old man in connection with initial disappearance and subsequent discovery of the body of his 59-year-old mom. The investigation team has worked around the clock since the 59-year-old lady was reported missing at the Knysna SAPS on Monday 10 January 2022. This follows reports that she was last seen alive on Friday evening of 07 January 2022.

A search party led by the investigating officer, comprising specialised units, including the K-9 (Dog Unit) and members of the community ensued, resulting in the discovery of the body of the 59-year-old lady the day thereafter, on Tuesday, 11 January 2022. Her body, already partially decomposed, was discovered by a member of the community in bushes between Alemein and Stroebel Streets in Hornlee, Knysna. An autopsy was conducted to determine the possible cause of death. Such report is not available at this stage and will be produced to court as part of the evidence.

Endurance and the constant following up on information about the whereabouts of the wanted suspect, son of the deceased, resulted in his arrest late the evening of Friday, 14 January 2022 by members of the community who handed him over to the investigation team.

The 28-year-old suspect is scheduled to appear in the Knysna magistrates’ court on a charge of Murder on Monday, 17 January 2022. He remains in custody at the Knysna SAPS holding cells.

Western Cape Provincial management his praised the combined efforts and cooperation between the police and community which resulted in the perpetrator to be brought before a court of Law to be held accountable for the brutal murder of his mother. Efforts to protect our most vulnerable, such as women and children are often jeopardised as the perpetrators some times are those who are the closest to the victims, those who are supposed to shelter, care and protect them, such as in this case,

Source: South African Police Service